The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has banned drone operations and fireworks in Uyo and imposed temporary traffic restrictions ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s visit to the state on Friday.Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare announced the measures on Thursday while briefing journalists at the Police Headquarters in Ikot Akpan Abia, Uyo.
He said the restrictions form part of security arrangements aimed at maintaining public order, protecting strategic locations and ensuring the smooth movement of the President’s convoy during his engagements.
“There will be total restriction on the operation and flying of drones within Uyo metropolis throughout the period of the visit. Members of the public, drone operators and service providers are advised to strictly comply with the directive,” Azare stated.
The police also banned the use of fireworks, knockouts and other explosive sound-producing devices in the state capital during the visit. The measure is intended to prevent panic and enable security personnel to respond effectively to genuine threats.
Temporary restrictions will apply to public access on designated routes and locations in Uyo. The affected areas are Airport Road, Shelter Afrique Junction, Oron Road, Nung Oku Junction, Mbierebe Junction and the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.Motorists have been urged to plan their journeys, exercise patience and cooperate with traffic and security personnel.
Residents are advised to avoid the restricted routes and use alternative paths.Azare said the command, working with other security agencies, has put comprehensive arrangements in place to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free visit.
He appealed to the public to understand that the temporary measures are necessary for security and not intended to cause hardship.He further urged residents to remain law-abiding, stay away from restricted areas and report any suspicious movements to the nearest police station or through emergency channels.
Tinubu’s visit is a working trip during which he is expected to inaugurate major infrastructure projects executed by Governor Umo Eno’s administration under its ARISE Agenda. The projects span aviation, roads, tourism, healthcare, land administration and security.
Among those scheduled for inauguration are the international terminal building and airport hospital at Victor Attah International Airport, the Aviation Village, ARISE Palm Resort, the 14.5-kilometre Nsit Atai–Okobo Road, Ring Road 3, the Command and Control Centre and the AkwaGIS building.